The first Quaker in Ireland, William Edmundson, has been called the “father of Irish Quakers.” He was converted in 1653 after being introduced to the faith while serving in the Parliamentary Army at Chesterfield. After moving to Ireland, Edmundson opened the first meetinghouse in Lurgan, County Armagh, in 1654 where the first worship meeting was held that same year. He is further credited with the record keeping that has resulted in such a comprehensive collection of births, marriages, and deaths.

Births, marriages, and deaths were recorded at each monthly meeting of the Quakers. Most of these records date back to the mid-1600s, continuing to present-day. While the Quaker community is comparatively small, it has amassed a prolific collection of records.